two women talking at a desk

What do we mean by cognitive load

  • General
  • 01 Oct 2023
classroom practice

This resource comprises a summary of what ‘cognitive load’ is, including an explanation of different types of memory. It is suitable for teachers, learning mentors and SENCOs from Early Years settings, schools and colleges.

The resource can be used to support practitioners to understand what cognitive load is; it can be used to conjunction with our resource ‘Cognitive load and pupils with SEND’ to help understand how we can use cognitive load theory to improve provision for our pupils with SEND.

Using this resource will lead to an increased understanding of cognitive load. You may also use this resource in CPDL activities in your school or setting.

This resource was first published in July 2020 and was last reviewed in October 2023.

Suitable for: SENCO, Teacher

Full access to this resource is available for:


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